BANG THE DRUM: Taiko drumming for people with Parkinson's

This event is sponsored by the Northwest Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA)

Come bang the drum!  Explore the balance of the Mind, Body and Spirit when playing Taiko. 

• MIND - learning simple drumming patterns and rhythms. 

• BODY - small to big movement of arms and legs and also using the core for drumming. How to do it safely! 

• SPIRIT -  Energy that we bring, put out and receive when playing. Using our loud voice for timing and expression. 

No experience needed.  Sitting & standing options.  Emphasis on “play”.  

SPECIAL NOTE:  Sitting and standing options provided. Participants need to be able to go up and down a couple of short flights of stairs.

There is plenty of space in the venue for non-drumming guests, but drumming is limited to 12 participants.

INSTRUCTORS:

Wendy Hamai, 75, dreamed of playing Japanese Taiko drums since the late 1970s. Her dream was fulfilled when she and other Taiko enthusiasts at the Tacoma Buddhist Temple founded the first Taiko group in Tacoma in 2009. She started Issho Open Taiko, a taiko education program in 2010, to make it easier for more people to experience the excitement of learning, and playing Taiko for empowerment, power, health and well being. She brings her 40+ year career experience as a Physician Assistant to her interest in using taiko for well being, health and healing.

Donna Sasaki, 75, was also a founding member and continues to play with the temple’s performing group “Fuji Taiko”.  She has many years experience as a musician and piano teacher.  She is a composer of Buddhist music. And, she also has personal knowledge and experience because of Parkinsons effect on a family member.

Register online: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/ancnf/event/apda_taiko/

…or call the office of Northwest American Parkinson Disease Association at (206) 695-2905 to register